Summertime is peak social season in Michigan. Get-togethers multiply, thanks to the long days and abundant sunshine, bringing us together to relax with plenty of good food and drink.
In that spirit, Van Andel Institute’s JBoard Ambassadors distill the best parts of the season into Around the World—an annual kick-off to summer that raises funds for Van Andel Institute Education’s K–12 programs.
This year’s event is set for Friday, May 31, 2024, starting at the picture-perfect golden hour of 6 p.m. There will be live entertainment, and local food trucks will be dishing out delicious fare. A selection of artisan wines, craft beer and non-alcoholic beverages will also be available for refreshment.
VAI’s JBoard is a network of early and mid-career professionals who come together to champion the Institute’s initiatives and raise funds for biomedical research and science education programs. The group hosts networking and fundraising events throughout the year, including Around the World and a mid-summer member mixer.
“JBoard has a tremendous impact on programs at VAI, and it’s wonderful to connect with other professionals who are looking to make a difference in their community,” said JBoard Co-chair Blake Crabb. “I invite anyone who is interested in learning more about JBoard and the Institute as a whole to join us at Around the World.”
This year, JBoard is donating all proceeds from Around the World to VAI for Education’s field trip programs. These include classroom field trips to the Institute, mobile field trips at schools or local parks, and the popular High School Journal Club.
The Institute’s field trip programs reach thousands of students each year. During the ‘22/‘23 school year, VAI for Education hosted 246 K–12 field trip experiences with 54 schools, and more than 4,200 students took part.
Information about Around the World and JBoard can be found at vai.org. To learn about K–12 programs offered by VAI for Education, visit vaei.org.
Courtesy of Van Andel Institute.
Photos Courtesy of Van Andel Institute.
